Glycolysis is also called “short – term energy system” and “lactic acid system”. It is the main provider of ATP during intense exercise that lasts 10 – 120 seconds. As an exercise continues more than 10 seconds, the anaerobic glycolytic system takes charge of providing ATP. This system uses glucose in the blood or glycogen to form ATP rapidly without oxygen. If glucose is used, it generates 2 ATPs, while if glycogen is used, it forms 3 ATPs.

The end product of this energy system is lactic acid. As lactic acid accumulates, the production of ATP via anaerobic glycolysis starts declining. This system provides ATP for up to 2 – 3 minutes. If exercise continues beyond 2 – 3 minutes, either the intensity of exercise should be decreased or the body would switch to aerobic systems to use oxygen to produce ATP.

Sports with Dominating Anaerobic Glycolysis System:

The anaerobic glycolysis system is the dominant energy system in the following sports: